The new Epiphone 1962 Sheraton E2125 is one of the coolest convergences of vintage feel, playability, and value we've seen in a long time.

Epiphone clearly spent a lot of time sweating the details, and the result is a guitar that stands up to close scrutiny and looks genuinely luxurious.

With regard to more impactful details, the mahogany neck, which Epiphone calls a "'60s slim taper" shape, feels fantastic.

Epiphone wasn't about to skimp on sound with such a lovely guitar, so they included U.S.-made Gibson mini humbuckers with alnico 2 bar magnets.

At well under a grand, the Epiphone 1962 Sheraton E212T is a fantastic value. The craftsmanship is excellent, and the combination of well-executed overseas construction and top-quality, American-made Gibson pickups is an interesting lesson in how a company can deliver a guitar that, in sonic terms, rivals much more expensive instruments in a instrument that working mortals can fit into their budgets and aspirations.